Personal Injury Lawyer Palm Beach County

When you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Palm Beach County, Florida, you deserve an advocate who will fight for your rights and your recovery. The personal injury lawyers at Weston & Pape are committed to helping victims secure the compensation they need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team understands the challenges that come after a serious accident and provides personalized, results-driven representation every step of the way. We will handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Call Weston & Pape today at 866-943-4021 for a free consultation and learn how we can help.

The Most Common Types of Personal Injury Claims in Palm Beach County

Personal injury cases are among the most common legal matters handled in Palm Beach County. Every day, residents and visitors experience accidents that result in injuries, medical expenses, and financial stress. Whether it happens on the road, in a store, or at work, these incidents can disrupt lives in an instant. Understanding the types of personal injury claims most frequently seen in this area can help you recognize when legal action might be necessary and what steps to take next.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car accidents are the leading cause of personal injury claims in Palm Beach County. With the county’s mix of busy highways, coastal routes, and tourist traffic, collisions occur regularly. These incidents range from minor fender-benders to serious crashes that cause life-altering injuries.

Common causes include speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, and failure to obey traffic laws. Victims often face medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, all of which can quickly add up. In Florida, the state’s no-fault insurance laws can make car accident claims complex. Drivers must first rely on their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, but in serious injury cases, victims may be eligible to step outside the no-fault system and pursue compensation from the at-fault party.

Truck Accidents

Truck accidents are particularly dangerous due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. When a large truck collides with a smaller car, the consequences can be catastrophic. Palm Beach County’s major roads, such as I-95 and the Florida Turnpike, see frequent commercial truck traffic.

These cases often involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and even the vehicle manufacturer if mechanical failure played a role. Federal and state regulations governing commercial trucks can also influence the outcome of these claims. Victims may pursue damages for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses tied to the crash.

Motorcycle Accidents

Palm Beach County’s warm weather and scenic routes make it a popular area for motorcyclists. Unfortunately, it also means a higher risk of motorcycle-related injuries. Motorcyclists have little protection compared to drivers in cars, so even minor accidents can cause severe harm.

Many motorcycle accidents occur when drivers fail to notice motorcycles in their blind spots or misjudge their speed. Road hazards such as debris or uneven pavement can also contribute. Common injuries include broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage. Because Florida does not require all riders to wear helmets, the injuries can be especially severe, and claims often involve significant medical evidence to prove the extent of damages.

Pedestrian Accidents

With its mix of beach towns, residential neighborhoods, and shopping districts, Palm Beach County sees heavy pedestrian activity. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents are on the rise. Drivers who are distracted, speeding, or failing to yield at crosswalks pose serious risks to those on foot.

Pedestrian injuries are often severe due to the lack of protection. Victims may face lengthy hospital stays and extensive rehabilitation. Compensation can cover medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. In fatal cases, family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall claims are another major category of personal injury cases in the county. These incidents occur in grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, apartment complexes, and even private homes. Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe and free of hazards.

Common causes include wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and neglected maintenance. Victims often suffer broken bones, head injuries, and back problems. To prove liability, it must be shown that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to address it. These cases fall under premises liability law, which focuses on the property owner’s duty of care.

Workplace Accidents

Work-related injuries are also common in Palm Beach County, especially in industries such as construction, landscaping, and hospitality. While many of these incidents are covered under workers’ compensation, some cases involve third-party claims when someone other than the employer contributed to the injury.

Examples include defective equipment, unsafe job sites, or negligent subcontractors. Injured workers may be entitled to benefits covering medical treatment and lost wages, and in certain cases, additional compensation for pain and suffering.

Medical Malpractice

Medical errors can have devastating effects on patients and their families. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient.

Common examples include surgical mistakes, misdiagnoses, delayed treatment, birth injuries, and medication errors. These cases are often complex and require expert testimony to establish negligence. Victims can pursue compensation for additional medical expenses, long-term care needs, and emotional distress.

Defective Products

Consumers expect that the products they use daily are safe. However, design flaws, manufacturing defects, and inadequate warnings can all lead to injuries. Defective product claims can involve anything from malfunctioning appliances to unsafe toys or dangerous pharmaceuticals.

In product liability cases, the responsibility may lie with the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer. Victims must prove that the product was defective and that the defect directly caused their injuries. These claims can also involve large-scale recalls and class action lawsuits, depending on how widespread the issue is.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

Florida law holds dog owners strictly liable when their pets bite or injure someone in a public place or while the victim is lawfully on private property. In Palm Beach County, dog bite cases are fairly common, particularly in parks, neighborhoods, and beaches.

Victims may experience puncture wounds, infections, or even lasting psychological trauma. The law does not require proof of the dog’s prior aggression, meaning owners can be held responsible even if the animal had never shown signs of violence before.

Wrongful Death Claims

When an accident leads to a fatality, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim. These cases can stem from car crashes, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, or other negligent acts.

A wrongful death claim seeks to recover losses such as funeral expenses, lost income, and the loss of companionship. These lawsuits are deeply emotional but serve an important role in holding negligent parties accountable and helping families find some measure of justice.

Understanding Your Rights 

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Palm Beach County, it is important to act quickly. Florida’s statute of limitations generally allows four years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim, though certain cases may have shorter deadlines.

An experienced personal injury lawyer can evaluate your situation, gather evidence, and handle communication with insurance companies. They can also help you understand the true value of your claim and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Take the Next Step With a Dedicated Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve suffered an injury in Palm Beach County, Florida, you deserve strong legal representation that prioritizes your recovery and peace of mind. The personal injury attorneys at Weston & Pape are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring negligent parties are held accountable. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face medical bills and emotional distress after an accident, which is why we guide you through each step of the process with compassion and determination. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Call Weston & Pape today at 866-943-4021 for a free consultation.